2012 Maserati GranTurismo MC

More power and extra downforce highlight the new motorsports-inspired GranTurismo MC.

Although it didn't make the floor of the Jacob Javits Convention Center, the 2012 Maserati GranTurismo MC, a motorsports-inspired version of the standard coupe, was introduced just prior to the press days for the New York Auto Show.

The initials MC stand for Maserati Corse, the racing arm of the Italian sports car maker. As such, the MC is a slightly more civilized version of the Stradale offered in Europe, which is a 2-seater designed primarily for track use. The U.S. version shares the more aggressive look—the MC has a front splitter, larger intakes, side skirts and slots, a new rear diffuser and large rear spoiler. The aero kit increases downforce by 25 percent in the front and 50 percent at the rear.

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Other differences include heat extraction vents in the hood, 20-in. custom alloy wheels and a lower ride height, which gives the car an aggressive, purposeful stance.

The interior, while luxurious, reflects the more sporting bent of the MC. The sport seats are more aggressively bolstered, while the interior is fitted with a combination of Poltrona Frau leather on the seats and grippy Alcantara on the steering wheel and other surfaces. The MC also has a new dash layout, redesigned instrument panel, seating for four and black accents replacing the chrome trim on standard GranTurismo models.

More Power From the V-8

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The 2012 Maserati GranTurismo MC is powered by a 4.7-liter V-8 producing 444 bhp at 7000 rpm, a slight bump over the GranTurismo S. Torque is also enhanced, and is now rated at 376 lb.-ft. at 4750 rpm. Throttle mapping has also been improved for better response, and an exhaust bypass system reduces back pressure while also providing a deeper exhaust note on full acceleration. Maserati says the GranTurismo MC is the first road car in the current range with a top speed in excess of 186 mph.

Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission with a sequential shift mode. The programming has been calibrated for reduced shift times and blip-throttle downshifts; the gearbox also holds each gear at redline until the driver selects the next ratio. Part of the instrument panel redesign incorporates a new shift indicator. A limited-slip rear differential is standard equipment.

In addition to the underhood improvements, Maserati has retuned the suspension; lowering the ride height by 10 mm and equipping the car with larger anti-roll bars. Maserati has also tuned the stability-control system to intervene less in spirited driving. Shock absorbers with magnetically variable damping are an option.

The 2012 Maserati GranTurismo MC is expected to go on sale late this year. Pricing has yet to be announced.

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